handwriting
UK: ˈhændraɪtɪŋ | US: ˈhændraɪtɪŋ
n. the style or appearance of text written by hand
n. the act or process of writing by hand
The word "handwriting" is a straightforward compound of "hand" (Old English hand, referring to the body part used for manipulation) and "writing" (Old English wrīting, derived from wrītan "to scratch/draw letters"). The term emerged in Middle English (as handwritung) to describe the physical act of forming letters manually, distinct from mechanical or printed text. Its logic reflects the direct connection between the hand's movement and the creation of written language.
Her handwriting is so elegant that it resembles calligraphy.
The teacher asked the students to improve their handwriting for clarity.
Historical documents often reveal insights through the study of handwriting styles.
He struggled to read the doctor's messy handwriting on the prescription.
In the digital age, handwriting skills are becoming less emphasized.